Guidelines for Surveillance of Bovine 

Tuberculosis in Wildlife

June 2011
2

Table of Contents

Preface................................................................................................................................................4

I. Introduction ..................................................................................................................................4

 A. Purpose...................................................................................................................................4

 TB Detection....................................................................................................................4

 Manual Contents..............................................................................................................5

 B. Bovine TB..............................................................................................................................5

II. Surveillance Strategies and Sample Collection............................................................................5

 A. Strategies For Identifying Animals for Sampling..................................................................5

 Target Species..................................................................................................................5

 Sampling Steps.................................................................................................................8

 Sample Sizes....................................................................................................................8

 Sample Size Calculator....................................................................................................8

 Selecting Geographic Areas for Sampling.......................................................................9

 B. Supplies................................................................................................................................10

 Sampling Supplies .........................................................................................................10

 Necropsy Tools..............................................................................................................10

 Blood Collection Supplies.............................................................................................10

 Other Supplies................................................................................................................10

 C. Personal Safety Guidelines and Equipment .........................................................................11

 Recommendations for Field Biologists and Veterinarians Handling Wildlife ................11

 Safety and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ............................................................11

 Handling Harmful Substances ..........................................................................................12

 Carcass Disposal and Disinfectants..................................................................................12

 Disposal of Gloves and Sample-Related Waste................................................................13

 D. Collecting Specimens...........................................................................................................13

 General Recommendations.............................................................................................13

 Sample Collection and Storage.......................................................................................13

 Samples to Collect ..........................................................................................................14

 When to Use Formalin, Whirl-Paks®, and/or Sodium Borate .......................................14

 Head Lymph Nodes and Tissues.....................................................................................14

 Thoracic Lymph Nodes and Tissues...............................................................................15

 Abdominal Cavity Lymph Nodes...................................................................................15

 Collection of Lesions or Abnormal Tissue .....................................................................15

 Tissue Selection and Preservation ..................................................................................16

 Blood Collection .............................................................................................................18

 Proper Labeling of Samples............................................................................................18

 Instructions for Wildlife Bovine Tuberculosis Surveillance Datasheets........................19

 Shipping Samples to NVSL............................................................................................20

 Communication When Shipping Samples to NVSL.......................................................20

 Reporting Results............................................................................................................20

III. Testing of Samples....................................................................................................................20

 A. Histopathology ...............................................................................................................20

 B. Polymerase Chain Reaction ............................................................................................21

 C. Mycobacteriologic Culture..............................................................................................21

IV. Data Management.....................................................................................................................22
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 A. Overview.........................................................................................................................22

 B. Data Entry and Responsibilities......................................................................................22

 C. Data Mapping and Reporting ..........................................................................................22 

Acknowledgements..........................................................................................................................22

 

V. Appendices.....................................................................................................................................

 Appendix A: National Wildlife TB Surveillance Contact Information....................................A1

 Appendix B: MSDS for 10% Buffered Formalin .....................................................................B1

 Appendix C: MSDS for Sodium Borate ...................................................................................C1

 Appendix D: Necropsy of Raccoon ..........................................................................................D1

 Appendix E: Necropsy of Deer (Cervidae)............................................................................... E1

 Appendix F: Necropsy of Coyote ..............................................................................................F1

 Appendix G: Necropsy of Opossum.........................................................................................G1

 Appendix H: Necropsy of Feral Swine.....................................................................................H1

 Appendix I: Lesions................................................................................................................... I1

 Appendix J: Sample Wildlife Bovine Tuberculosis Surveillance Datasheet.............................J1

 Appendix K: Sample 10-4 form................................................................................................K1

 
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Preface

The following recommendations were developed to provide guidance for State and Federal 

wildlife agencies that plan to conduct surveillance for bovine tuberculosis (TB) in wildlife—

specifically in areas where new detections of TB are found in dairy, beef cattle, or captive cervid 

herds. 

These recommendations are meant to be used as a resource during the development of a TB 

wildlife disease surveillance strategy for sampling wildlife. They are not intended for use in 

determining the prevalence of disease in wildlife populations. Additionally, the procedures and 

other information provided in this manual are not mandatory. Farm-specific practices to 

minimize livestock-wildlife interactions are effective methods of preventing infection; however, 

those methods are not addressed in this manual. Instead, the guidelines focus specifically on 

wildlife surveillance strategies for detecting bovine TB.

Guidelines for Surveillance of Bovine Tuberculosis in Wildlife was developed by the Animal and 

Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), in collaboration with wildlife professionals with 

expertise in bovine TB. These recommendations incorporate the most recent scientific literature 

and are intended to serve as a starting point for developing and conducting surveillance for 

bovine TB in geographic areas where the presence of disease in wildlife is unknown. 

Interagency cooperation is strongly encouraged between State wildlife agencies, other State 

cooperators, stakeholders, and APHIS’ Wildlife Services (WS) and Veterinary Services (VS) to 

develop an effective area-specific surveillance plan. Additionally, coordination with the 

National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa, prior to sampling is also

recommended to ensure timely testing of samples.

I. Introduction

A. Purpose

This manual includes recommendations for conducting TB surveillance in wildlife in areas 

where bovine TB has been detected in a dairy, beef, or captive cervid herds. The main objective 

of the surveillance strategies described is to determine whether bovine TB is present in wildlife 

or on surrounding infected premises.

TB Detection 

Following the detection of bovine TB in domestic livestock, it is often important to determine if 

free-ranging wildlife also are infected. If bovine TB is detected in wildlife, an evaluation of risk 

to domestic livestock associated with the findings of bovine TB in wildlife will be conducted. 

Depending on the results of the evaluation, a TB management plan may be developed through 

joint efforts among the State wildlife agency, WS, and VS. These TB management plans should 

include provisions to further investigate the presence of bovine TB, minimize the spread 

geographically, increase surveillance, and eventually, eliminate the disease from free-ranging 

wildlife and domestic livestock. 
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Manual Contents

This document includes the following guidelines for obtaining and submitting samples from 

wildlife:

• Sampling supplies

• Protocols for obtaining samples

• Species to sample

• Sample sizes

• Safety and personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Protocols for shipping samples

• Data management

Questions regarding this manual may be directed to the appropriate contacts listed in Appendix 

A.

B. Bovine TB

Bovine TB is a chronic bacterial disease (primarily of cattle) caused by the microorganism

Mycobacterium bovis. The disease can affect other species, including humans and wildlife. 

Bovine TB is most often transmitted to humans by inhalation of aerosolized respiratory tract 

bacteria, ingestion of unpasteurized milk, and inoculation by contaminated instruments (such as 

knives). The disease can be spread from livestock to wildlife or wildlife to livestock via the 

fecal-oral route, ingestion of contaminated food, or though the respiratory tract. The APHIS 

Bovine TB Eradication Program has reduced TB in U.S. cattle; however, spillover into wildlife 

may maintain the microorganism in the environment and function as a source of re-infection for 

livestock. 

II. Surveillance Strategies and Sample Collection

A. Strategies for Identifying Animals for Sampling

Target Species 

The first documented cases of bovine TB in North American wildlife were identified in two 

white-tailed deer in 1933, one white-tailed deer in 1937, and one white-tailed deer in 1961. All 

of those cases were from the same area of New York. TB was subsequently found in freeranging white-tailed deer in northern Michigan in 1975. A second occurrence from the same 

area of Michigan in 1994 drew attention to the possibility of wildlife being a reservoir host for 

M. bovis. Since 1995, M. bovis has been detected in several wildlife and feral species in North 

America. These species include:

• White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) • Elk (Cervus canadensis)

• Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) • Bison (Bison bison)

• Raccoons (Procyon lotor) • Moose (Alces alces)

• Coyotes (Canis latrans) • Opossums (Didelphis virginiana)

• Feral cats (Felis silvestris catus) • Gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus)

• Black bears (Ursus americanus) • Feral swine (Sus scrofa)

• Gray wolves (Canis lupus) • Red fox (Vulpes vulpes)

• Bobcat (Lynx rufus)
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The species listed above should be considered for incorporation in a surveillance plan if they are 

located in the area where TB-infected animals are found. Since any mammal may become 

infected with bovine TB, other species may also be considered for sampling. Some species 

infected with M. bovis are known to serve as a source of reintroduction, while other species have 

not been identified as a risk either to other wildlife or domestic livestock. 

With increased knowledge of the involvement of wildlife in the ecology of bovine TB, there is 

also a need to better understand the relationship among wildlife, domestic livestock, and bovine 

TB outbreaks. New detections of bovine TB in domestic herds raise questions concerning the 

infection status of wildlife in areas containing affected herds and the potential for transmission of 

bovine TB from infected wildlife to other animals in the area. 

Resident Wildlife

Resident wildlife have small home ranges and spend the majority of their time in close proximity 

to the affected premises. 

After trapping resident wildlife on TB-affected premises in Michigan, bovine TB-infected 

peridomestic resident mammals (e.g. raccoons and opossums) were found on approximately twothirds of the farms sampled. These multiple-year trapping efforts on affected premises indicate 

that bovine TB detections in peridomestic mammals are much more likely to occur during the 

first year of trapping after TB is detected in a domestic herd. Current research does not indicate 

that peridomestic mammals pose a risk of disease transmission to domestic livestock. However,

it is suggested that these animals be removed as part of the cleaning and disinfection effort to

reduce the potential for re-infection.

It is recommended that resident mammals (e.g. raccoons and opossums) are trapped and removed 

as soon as possible after a premises is identified as infected. Removal efforts should continue 

until no target species are trapped for 5 consecutive nights. Additionally, removal efforts should 

be conducted at approximately 6-month intervals when trapping conditions are optimal (e.g.,

spring and fall). Trapping should be conducted for a minimum of 1 year after the last TB 

positive animal was removed. Removal of peridomestic mammals serve not only to clean and 

disinfect the premises, but may also offer an opportunity to learn more about the potential role 

that these animals play in the epidemiology of bovine TB. Testing of these animals is highly 

recommended. 

Transient Wildlife

Transient wildlife are animals that have home ranges generally larger than the size of farms or 

ranches in the area and, consequently, spend only a portion of their time on the affected premises 

(e.g., deer, coyotes, and feral swine). These animals may have less direct contact with domestic 

herds, but due to their increased movements, may have greater potential to spread bovine TB 

through indirect contact (e.g., contamination of feed) or serve as sentinels for the disease.

Coyotes

Recently published research indicates that coyotes are good sentinels for bovine TB. Infections 

primarily have been detected in the mesenteric lymph nodes of coyotes, which indicate that the 

mycobacterium was ingested. It is recommended that sampling for coyotes begin at least one 
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home range from the perimeter of the infected premises to distinguish between coyotes that 

ingested infected livestock on the known infected premises from those that ingested bovine TB 

from wildlife or infected livestock from neighboring premises. If local coyote home ranges are 

unknown, surveillance should be conducted beyond an inner radius of 10 miles (i.e., no sampling 

within 10 miles of the infected premises). Re-evaluation of the survey area may be required if 

additional affected dairy, beef, or captive cervid herds are identified.

The objective of sampling coyotes is to assist in delineating the extent of bovine TB on the 

landscape, not to determine if wildlife or livestock are the cause of infection or to estimate the 

prevalence of disease in target species.

This type of sampling is metaphorically similar to the shape of a doughnut, with the doughnut

hole representing the infected premises, and the doughnut or area surrounding the premises

representing 1 home range (or 10 miles). Coyote sampling begins around the perimeter of the 

doughnut.

Coyotes are territorial animals and will move into new territories when other coyotes are 

displaced. Therefore, samples should be obtained within 6 months to ensure that the information 

gathered is from coyotes in the surrounding area rather than coyotes from adjacent territories. If 

possible, samples should be collected from 10 coyotes (at least 1 year old) beyond the perimeter 

of the infected farm within 6 months of identification of the infected premises. 

Feral Swine

Bovine TB has not been detected in the feral swine population in the continental United States, 

and the epidemiology of bovine TB in countries where M. bovis has been identified in feral 

swine is not fully understood. Feral swine are considered as spillover hosts in some areas and as 

reservoirs in other areas with high densities. To mitigate the potential threat for bovine TB 

related to feral swine, it is recommended that efforts be made to remove all feral swine within 10

miles of the premises or a distance determined by local wildlife experts. 

10 miles 

or 1 

home 

range

Bovine TB

Infected Farm

Coyote sampling 

around the perimeter 

No sampling of 

coyotes on the 

infected premises or 

within 1 home range 

of the premises
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Cervids

Telemetry studies conducted in Michigan indicate that a small subset of white-tailed deer 

account for the majority of visits to farms. Additionally, deer that visit one farm are more likely 

to visit multiple farms. Cervids are known to become infected and to transmit bovine TB via the 

oral or respiratory route and are considered reservoirs in some areas. Consequently, samples 

from cervids are a high priority. 

Sampling Steps

The following steps (in no particular order) are recommended within the designated surveillance 

area:

1. Remove and test deer and feral swine on and within 10 miles of the infected premises, or 

within a sampling radius determined by local wildlife biologists. The desired sample 

sizes and time periods for collection will have been determined during the development 

of a sampling plan. Typically, target samples sizes will be reached within 3 years.

2. Follow up with hunter-harvested surveillance of cervids and feral swine during hunting 

season to reach the target number of samples.

3. Trap and test target species other than cervids and feral swine within a 1- to 2- mile

radius of the infected premises. 

4. Trap and test coyotes beyond 1 home range or 10 miles of the infected premises.

5. Trap or otherwise remove and collect samples from small mammals known to be 

spillover hosts of TB that are present on the premises. The list of species in section II (A)

may be used as a reference to identify species of interest. Consult with local wildlife 

agencies prior to removing any animals to ensure compliance with State and Federal 

regulations. Begin sampling as soon as possible after detection and continue trapping

until 1 year after the last TB-positive animal is removed.

Sample Sizes

Resident Wildlife: It may not be necessary to establish a target sample size for peridomestic 

animals because it is recommended that they be trapped on the infected premises for at least 1

year after removal of the last infected animal. Furthermore, each trapping season will likely 

result in removal of the entire resident population since trapping will continue until no target 

species are trapped for at least 5 consecutive nights.

Transient Wildlife: The target number of transient animal (e.g., deer) samples may be collected 

using a combination of hunter-harvested and agency-harvested surveillance efforts on or around 

the index premises. For agency-harvested surveillance, tissue samples are collected by trained 

biologists or veterinarians within the designated surveillance area (surrounding the affected 

premises) shortly after the animal’s death. These samples are given more weight (i.e., fewer

samples need to be collected) than samples obtained from hunter-harvested surveillance where 

the entire carcass may not be available for sampling. 

Sample Size Calculator

A sample-size calculator has been created based on the epidemiology of bovine TB in Michigan 

white-tailed deer. This calculator provides one method of determining the number of samples 

required to detect the presence of bovine TB in deer populations surrounding infected farms. 
9

Other methods or models may also be used to facilitate sample-size determinations. The 

calculator weights the samples based on age, gender, and collection method and includes a 

probability of detection. For example, samples from male deer older than 2 years of age are 

given more weight than samples from deer younger than 2 years of age. Likewise, lymph nodes

submitted from throughout the carcass (complete necropsy) of specifically targeted animals are 

given more weight than hunter-harvested samples (where only the head and associated lymph 

nodes are available for evaluation). Regardless of the source, all samples are counted and 

included in the calculations. The probability of detection is defined as the sensitivity of the 

entire process from sample collection to sample testing. 

The target number of samples may be reached over a multiyear period determined during the 

development of the wildlife surveillance strategy. It is not necessary to collect all of the samples 

in 1 year. However, the target number of samples should be collected in the least amount of time 

possible to ensure timely detection of the disease. (The sample calculator is available by 

contacting any of the first five people listed in Appendix A). 

Note: Caution should be used when applying this sample calculator to elk because the same 

pattern of weights by age and gender may not apply. Local wildlife biologists should be 

consulted for population densities and assistance in determining an appropriate sample size for 

elk.

Selecting Geographic Areas for Sampling

Resident wildlife should be trapped in the designated surveillance area defined as the infected 

premises. Since homes ranges for cervids and other transient animals vary depending on the 

region of the country and habitat, the formula below may be used to aid in determining the 

appropriate geographic area to conduct surveillance. This formula should serve as a starting 

point and should not be used as the only means for determining the appropriate area to sample. 

Consideration should be given to the specific species being targeted (e.g., elk versus deer) and 

the unique ecology of the population being sampled. Additionally, issues related to migratory, 

nonmigratory, or a population with a combination of migratory and nonmigratory animals should 

be considered as well as gender and age classes. 

For example, if bovine TB is found in an area where deer have a home range of 5 square miles, 

then 2 * √(5/ π) = 2.5, meaning that surveillance would be conducted within a 2.5 mile radius 

around the infected premises or within two home ranges of the infected premises. This formula 

converts home range in square miles to circular equivalent areas. The diameter of the circular 

home range then becomes the radius of the surveillance zone. It is important to remember that 

different species have different size home ranges and the same species may have different size 

home ranges in different parts of the country.

Formula for selecting geographic area for surveillance

Surveillance radius = 2 * √(A/π) where A is the home range of the species in square miles
10

B. Supplies 

Sampling Supplies

The NVSL will provide sampling supplies upon request (see Appendix A for contact 

information). The supplies needed to sample one animal include:

• Two jars (90 mL) of 10 percent neutral buffered formalin per animal

• Up to three Whirl-Paks® (or other sterile bags) per animal for storing fresh tissues 

• Two 4-ounce jars of saturated sodium borate solution per animal (optional for collection 

from cervids and feral swine)

• Six barcodes per animal: two for the buffered formalin jars (head and chest, abdomen),

two for the Whirl-Paks® or sodium borate jars, one for the datasheet, and one for the 

serum vial (if applicable)

• FedEx shipping label

Necropsy Tools

Suggested necropsy supplies include:

• Sharp knife (hunting knives and slaughterhouse boning knives work well)

• Scissors

• Rat-tooth forceps

• Cutting board

• Personal Protective Equipment (see PPE section below)

• Hack saw or bone saw

• Small and large shears (lopping shears or ratcheted rib cutters for rib cage/sternum)

• Chisel and mallet

• Scalpels and razor blades (disposable scalpels are highly recommended)

• Jaw spreaders for aging cervids and feral swine

Blood Collection Supplies

Blood collection supplies are used only for sampling animals with visible lesions or granulomas. 

Those supplies include:

• 1- to 1.5-inch needles (or Vacutainer® needles and holders)

• 3- to 4-inch spinal needles (for intracardiac blood from cervids and feral swine)

• 10 mL syringe

• Vacutainer® tubes

• 4 mL Cryovials®

Other Supplies

Other suggested supplies include:

• Global Positioning System Unit (set to WGS84 and decimal degrees)

• Disinfectant 

• Scrub brush

• Large rubber tub (for disinfecting boots and necropsy tools)

• Datasheets

• Plastic bags (large for carcass disposal and small for sample collection)
11

• Sharpie® or indelible marker (for labeling)

• Pen (for filling out datasheets)

• Plastic sheets, wood chips, pet litter, or other absorbents (for floors in work area)

• Sharps container

• Biohazard waste bag

• Digital camera

• Ruler (for measuring lesions and/or tissue)

C. Personal Safety Guidelines and Equipment

Recommendations for Field Biologists and Veterinarians Handling Wildlife

Bovine TB is zoonotic and presents a risk to human health and safety. Because of this risk, all 

carcasses should be handled with caution and considered potentially infectious. Precautions for 

personal safety should be exercised. 

Do not eat, drink, or smoke while dissecting a carcass or collecting samples. Establish a clean 

work zone and a contaminated work zone (clean/dirty line) with an area to disinfect supplies, 

equipment, and personnel between the two areas. Place datasheets, GPS units, cameras, and 

other nondisposable equipment in plastic bags or containers that can be disinfected or discarded. 

All personnel conducting necropsies or handling animals that may be infected with bovine TB 

should also have a TB test prior to any potential exposure and annually thereafter (or as 

recommended by an occupational health professional). 

Safety and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wearing protective gear will minimize the possibility of contact with infectious agents in body 

fluids and aerosols and reduce the risk of human infection. All necropsy tools and instruments 

should be disinfected before and between necropsies and after sampling to prevent crosscontamination and infection.

The following PPE are recommended during sample collection from wildlife:

• Heavy-duty disposable gloves (rubber or nitrile)

• Cut-resistant mesh glove on nondominant hand

• Goggles, safety glasses, or face shield

• Disposable apron or an apron that can be disinfected

• Forearm protectors

• Cloth or Tyvek® coveralls

• Rubber boots

• Hair net or hat that can be disinfected

• Respirator (N95 mask at a minimum) 

Work upwind of carcasses when performing necropsies outdoors. Always wash hands and 

exposed skin with soap and warm water or an alcohol-based cleanser after collecting samples.
12

Handling Harmful Substances

Sodium borate and 10 percent buffered formalin are hazardous substances that can be inhaled or 

absorbed through the skin. Carefully handle all harmful substances when sampling and shipping 

(see Appendices B and C). 

Disinfectants are also potentially hazardous and should be handled with care. The Material 

Safety Data Sheets for each chemical should be reviewed prior to use to ensure that collectors are

aware of the dangers associated with handling the disinfectants and chemicals and take the

appropriate precautions.

Carcass Disposal and Disinfectants

The carcass and all tissues from the carcass should be disposed of according to State and local 

animal carcass disposal regulations. Depending on the State or area, methods may include 

burial, incineration, composting, or double-bagging and transporting to a landfill. All 

contaminated paper or plastic materials should be considered hazardous waste and should be 

thoroughly disinfected, incinerated, or double-bagged and disposed of at the landfill (if 

permitted). 

All blood and tissue should be removed from necropsy instruments and tools with soap and 

water, rinsed, and subsequently disinfected with an approved disinfectant for bovine TB between 

necropsies. If performing necropsies in a laboratory setting, a container of 70 percent ethanol or 

reagent alcohol with sand in the bottom can be used to decontaminate instruments between 

animals. The excess liquid should be flamed using a Bunsen burner or propane torch. If 

disinfectants are not thoroughly rinsed (flamed) from the instrument, a false negative result may 

occur. Conversely, if disinfectants are not used between animals, false positives may be 

identified. 

Gloves should also be changed between animals. Necropsy boots, aprons, and contaminated 

clothing should be cleaned and thoroughly disinfected upon completion of sample collections. 

External surfaces of containers with samples should be disinfected. 

The products listed in the table below are effective, environmentally friendly disinfectants for 

use against bovine TB. Additional approved TB disinfectants can be found in the U.S. 

Buffered Formalin Sodium Borate
13

Environmental Protection Agency Office of Pesticide Programs List B: EPA’s “Registered 

Tuberculocide Products Effective Against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.”

Disinfectant Time to Effectively 

Disinfect Environmentally Friendly Manufacturer

Oxivir® Tb 5 minutes Active ingredients break 

down to water and oxygen JohnsonDiversey

Opti-Cide 3® 3 minutes

Contains no dangerous

phenols, chlorine, artificial 

dyes or perfumes

Micro-Scientific 

Industries

Clorox® Bleach 

(Mix 1 part bleach 

with 9 parts water)

5 minutes

Product contains no free 

chlorine and breaks down 

into salt and water after use; 

does not contain dioxins or 

contaminate groundwater 

Clorox® Company

Disposal of Gloves and Sample-Related Waste

Spray or soak waste with disinfectant and place in a bag. Spray or soak the bag with 

disinfectant, place the bag in another bag, and dispose at the landfill (if permitted).

D. Collecting Specimens

General Recommendations

Despite the stringent decontamination protocols used in the laboratory, tissue specimens can still 

be overgrown by environmental fungi and bacteria, thereby impeding the ability to recover any 

viable mycobacteria present in the tissues. To minimize overgrowth, it is important to collect 

tissues from the animal as soon as possible post mortem. Collect tissues from animals within 2 

hours whenever possible. If the animal has been dead for more than 24 hours, contact the 

laboratory prior to submitting samples for histopathology. When performing the necropsy, 

collect the tissues using aseptic techniques from the head, thoracic cavity, and abdominal cavity 

(in that order) to minimize cross-contamination.

Species-specific necropsy procedures are provided in the following appendices:

• Appendix D for raccoons

• Appendix E for deer or other cervids

• Appendix F for coyotes

• Appendix G for opossums

• Appendix H for feral swine 

Sample Collection and Storage

Collect tissues from animals within 2 hours when possible and ship to NVSL within 72 hours. 

Delays in shipping samples to NVSL may result in false negative results. Extended exposure to 

sodium borate may make the recovery of M. bovis impossible. Extended exposure to 10 percent

buffered formalin will denature the proteins and render the samples unsuitable for testing. 

Samples submitted for histopathology should be placed in 10 percent buffered formalin. 

Samples submitted for culture should be collected in Whirl-Paks® and kept cold until shipped,
14

or in sodium borate at room temperature. Tissues from the head and chest can be combined in 

the same Whirl-Pak® or jar. However, lymph nodes or tissues from the abdominal region 

should be placed in separate containers to prevent contamination. Fresh, well preserved samples 

increase the probability of culturing and detection of M. bovis. 

Samples to Collect

Collect submandibular, retropharyngeal, tracheobronchial, mediastinal, and mesenteric lymph 

nodes from each animal, as well as a section of tonsils, lungs, and any tissues with gross lesions. 

Carefully examine the lungs and palpitate for abnormalities. Collect parotid lymph nodes from 

cervids and feral swine. The collection of mesenteric lymph nodes from non-cervids is 

especially important because lesions are often found in these nodes. Blood should also be 

collected from animals exhibiting gross lesions suggestive of bovine TB infection. 

When to Use Formalin, Whirl-Paks® and/or Sodium Borate

Samples submitted for culture should be placed in Whirl-Paks®. Samples submitted for 

histopathology should be placed in 10 percent buffered formalin jars. Lymph nodes and tissues 

collected from cervids and feral swine can be placed in sodium borate jars for culture analysis if 

preferred by the collector. An advantage of sodium borate is that the tissue can be preserved 

without refrigeration and it decreases the risk of tissue contamination by other bacteria. 

However, if the sample does not arrive at the laboratory for culture testing within 72 hours, the 

sodium borate may penetrate the tissue sample and kill any mycobacteria that may be present, 

thereby increasing the risk of a false negative culture result. Tissues from species other than 

cervids or feral swine are too small (less than 1 inch in diameter) to be placed in sodium borate 

because the borate will penetrate the tissue too quickly and kill any mycobacteria present.

Use a 10:1 formalin to tissue ratio when submitting samples for histopathology. Tissues placed 

in formalin should be approximately 3⁄8-inch or less (e.g., the width of a pencil). For larger 

tissues, cut 1⁄4-inch sections to place in the formalin. Use equal parts of tissue and sodium borate 

(if appropriate) when submitting for mycobacteriologic culture. Tissues submitted in WhirlPaks® should be refrigerated or placed in a cooler with ice until shipped to the laboratory. If 

fresh tissues for culture will be held more than 72 hours prior to shipping, freeze at -20°C and 

ship the tissues frozen on ice packs.

Head Lymph Nodes and Tissues

The retropharyngeal, submandibular, and parotid lymph nodes and tonsils are targeted for 

sampling. However, the parotids are difficult to locate in small mammals; therefore, it is not 

necessary to submit parotids from non-cervids (other than feral swine). Lymph nodes in the head 

and neck region are paired. Submit both parotid, submandibular, and retropharyngeal lymph 

nodes from each animal when possible. For non-cervids, collect one of each lymph node for 

culture and the other lymph node for histopathology. For cervids and feral swine, lymph nodes 

must be sectioned before placing the samples in formalin. Place a 3⁄8-inch section (width of a 

Test Species Tissue collection

Histopathology All Formalin

Culture All Whirl-Paks®

Culture (optional) Cervids & Feral Swine Sodium borate
15

pencil) of each lymph node in formalin and keep the remainder of each for culture submission. 

If both lymph nodes cannot be recovered from each animal, submit one for histopathology 

screening. When possible, extract tonsils to submit for testing (one for culture, and one for 

histopathology). 

Thoracic Lymph Nodes and Tissues

All tissues in the chest should be examined thoroughly for evidence of TB infection (i.e., 

lesions). Lymph nodes from the chest cavity include the mediastinal lymph node (chain of 

nodes; typically found between the aorta and lungs and near the heart) and tracheobronchial

lymph nodes (paired and found where the trachea splits into the main bronchi on each side). Due 

to the small size of these lymph nodes in species other than cervids, collect and submit these 

lymph nodes for culture only. Carefully examine the lungs and submit a subsection of at least 

two lobes of the lung. 

Abdominal Cavity Lymph Nodes

The mesenteric lymph nodes are the only lymph nodes to routinely submit from the abdominal 

cavity. They are located in the mesentery associated with the bowel, usually most obvious 

between the loops of small intestine where the blood vessels converge. Placement and size of 

the lymph nodes can vary depending on species. Carefully examine the mesenteric lymph nodes 

of non-cervids because lesions in these lymph nodes are more common in non-cervids than in 

cervids. For species with mesenteric lymph nodes greater than 3⁄8-inch thick (width of a pencil),

place 3⁄8-inch sections in formalin for histopathology and keep the remainder for culture.

Collection of Lesions or Abnormal Tissue

All observed lesion(s) should be submitted in separate containers for laboratory analysis. When 

multiple lesions are found in the same tissue, submit a small section (the size of a golf ball) for 

histopathology and culture and include sections of adjacent normal tissue. If only one lesion is 

found, divide the tissue in half through the middle of the lesion and submit half for 

histopathology and half for culture (include adjacent normal tissue). If there are insufficient 

lesions to divide, submit the available tissue for culture testing only (see Appendix I). 

When sampling, carefully examine the chest cavity and lungs for the presence of lesions and/or 

granulomas. Be sure to feel and visually inspect each lung lobe carefully (see Appendix I).

IMPORTANT: Collect tissues with lesions in a separate container. Do not include lesions in the 

same containers with regularly collected lymph nodes or tissues, or in a container with other 

lesioned tissue samples. Label the container (not the lid) with the location where lesions were 

found. When submitting tissue with lesions, be sure to document the following in the comments 

section of the datasheet: the origin of the tissue affected, number of lesions, distribution and 

pattern, size, shape, color, consistency and texture of the lesion. Additionally, submit a digital 

photograph of all of the lesions with an adjacent object that indicates the scale of the lesion, if 

possible.
16

Tissue Selection and Preservation

1. Always clean and disinfect instruments between necropsies of each animal. If disposable 

scalpels are available, discard them after each animal. Thoroughly rinse instruments after 

disinfecting to ensure that the samples are not inadvertently disinfected. Change gloves 

between the necropsy of each animal.

2. Submit lymph nodes in separate containers based on the region of the body from which 

they are collected (head and chest combined, and abdomen in a separate container). Use 

two formalin jars and two Whirl-Paks® (or optional two sodium borate jars for cervids or 

feral swine) for all other species if no gross lesions are observed. Note: Tissues with 

lesions should be submitted in separate containers for culture and labeled with the tissue 

type in addition to the barcode. 

3. Label the Whirl-Paks® with the last four digits of the barcode and “HC” or “A” to 

correspond to the head and chest or abdomen (see picture below). After the samples have 

been collected, place all Whirl-Paks® in a larger Ziploc® bag with the barcode affixed to 

the Ziploc® bag. 

4. Assign a unique barcode to each animal. Apply a barcode with the same number to the 

formalin jars, the Ziploc® bag (with Whirl-Paks® inside), the serum vial, and the 

datasheet. Tissues from different animals should never be combined in the same jars or 

Whirl-Paks®.

5. For samples submitted for histopathology, divide the tissues or lymph nodes into slices 

approximately 3⁄8-inch thick (width of a pencil). Place lymph nodes or tissues in the 

formalin jar. If lesions are observed, collect sections of the lesions and include normal 

tissues surrounding the lesions. Lymph nodes submitted for histopathology should be cut

in half to ensure that they become formalin-fixed (unless they are the size of a jelly bean 

or smaller). 

6. For small lymph nodes, do not cut lymph nodes in half when submitting for culture. 

Store fresh tissues in Whirl-Paks® and then place the samples on ice. For larger (>3⁄8-

inch thick) lymph nodes, cut 3⁄8-inch sections for formalin and submit the remainder for 

culture. For collection of cervid samples using sodium borate, cut a 1-inch cube of tissue 

(approximately the size of a golf ball) and place the lymph node or tissue into the sodium 

borate jar. Tissues less than 1-inch thick should not be placed in sodium borate. 

7. If the sample volume is insufficient to divide for histopathology and culture, it is 

recommended that samples are submitted for culture if gross lesions are present; or 

samples are submitted for histopathology if gross lesions are not present.
17

8. After sample collection, disinfect the outside of each Whirl-Pak® or container in an

approved disinfectant for TB. Use caution to ensure that no disinfectant enters the WhirlPak® or container. Remember to keep the surface wet with disinfectant solution for the 

required contact time (see the table on page 13 or refer to the product label). Rinse with 

water after the contact time requirement has been met.

9. Tighten the caps on specimen containers and seal with Parafilm®. Electrical tape also 

can be used if Parafilm® is not available. Place a barcode on the outside of the specimen 

container. The Whirl-Paks® for culture and the formalin jars for histopathology will 

receive the same number because they are from the same animal.

10. Do not freeze specimens that will be submitted for histopathology. Fresh tissues for 

culture submitted in Whirl-Paks® should be kept cool on ice or refrigerated until shipped

to the laboratory. If fresh tissues will be held more than 3 days before shipping, freeze at 

-20°C and ship frozen tissues on ice packs. Formalin fixed tissues as well as fresh tissues 

stored in sodium borate can be kept at room temperature until shipped. 

11. Samples should be shipped to the NVSL within 24 hours of collection when possible. 

Avoid weekend delivery unless prior arrangements have been made with the laboratory

staff (see shipping section below for instructions and address).

Species Region Samples Collected Storage

Cervids and 

Feral Swine

Head retropharyngeal, submandibular, 

parotid, tonsils

Whirl-Paks® for 

culture (sodium borate 

optional)

and

formalin for 

histopathology

Chest mediastinal, trachebronchial, 

lung

Abdomen mesenteric

Lesions any tissue with lesions

Non-cervids 

(Raccoons, 

Opossums, 

and 

Coyotes)

Head retropharyngeal, submandibular, 

tonsils Whirl-Paks® for 

culture

and

formalin for 

histopathology

Chest

mediastinal, trachebronchial, 

lung

Abdomen mesenteric

Lesions any tissue with lesions
18

Blood Collection

Blood should only be collected from wildlife with visible lesions or granulomas. If bovine TB or 

TB-like granulomas or lesions are observed anywhere in the carcass, use a needle and syringe to 

extract as much blood as possible from the heart. 

1. Place extracted blood into a 10 mL red-top or serum-separator tube (collect at least two

tubes if possible). 

2. Blood should be left undisturbed for approximately 30 minutes at room temperature to 

encourage clot formation prior to centrifugation. 

3. Centrifuge for 10 minutes at a minimum of 1,800 revolutions per minute for 15 minutes 

to separate the serum from the blood cells. Then use a sterile disposable pipette to 

transfer the serum to a polypropylene Cryovial® (or pour serum off if using a serumseparator tube). If a centrifuge is not available, serum can be obtained by letting the clot 

or blood cells settle, then chill in refrigerator to contract the clot, and transfer the serum 

to a polypropylene Cryovial®. 

4. Submit at least 1 mL of serum to the TB serum bank. Transfer the serum to a single 

polypropylene Cryovial® and refrigerate, or transfer 0.5 mL of serum into 1.2 mL

polypropylene Cryovials® and freeze at -20°C. 

5. Label the serum vial with the sample barcode number using a Sharpie® or permanent 

marker.

6. Refrigerated serum should be shipped to NVSL with ice packs within 2 weeks of 

collection. 

7. Frozen serum can be shipped to NVSL once a month on dry ice to ensure the samples 

remain frozen during shipping. Do not freeze serum samples that contain more than 0.5 

mL of serum. This will reduce the number of freeze-thaw cycles during processing at 

NVSL to ensure that sample quality is maintained. 

Submit all serum to:

National Veterinary Services Laboratories

Attention: Jeff Nelson, TB Serum Bank

1920 Dayton Avenue

Ames, Iowa 50010

Questions regarding serum collection or handling procedures should be directed to Jeff Nelson 

by e-mail at Jeffrey.T.Nelson@aphis.usda.gov or by telephone at (515) 337-7966.

Proper Labeling of Samples

All samples collected from the same animal should be labeled with the same unique barcode—

including serum samples. This label should be placed on the container (not on the lid). If fresh 

tissues are submitted in Whirl-Paks®, at least the last four digits of the barcode number should 

be written with a Sharpie® or permanent marker. All of the individual Whirl-Paks® should be 

stored in a larger Ziploc® bag identified with the sample barcode. Place the samples stored in 

Whirl-Paks® in a cooler and/or on ice packs, or refrigerate immediately. 
19

Instructions for Wildlife Bovine Tuberculosis Surveillance Datasheets

1. Record the collector’s name, agency, phone number, and e-mail address in the upper left 

corner.

2. Record the collection site name. A collection site is defined as the refuge, lake, property 

name, dairy name or other name used by the collector to identify the location. Be as 

specific as possible. The producer’s farm name also can be listed as the collection site if 

samples are collected on a dairy or beef operation. 

3. Collect the GPS coordinates for the site using a GPS unit set to datum WGS 84 and 

decimal degrees. The site is defined as the general location where the samples are 

collected. For example, the site may be the front gate of the infected premises, the 

reservoir, or refuge. Collect one set of coordinates per site.

4. Record the county and State where the samples are collected and the date collected in the 

corresponding boxes. The date should be recorded using the month, day, year format 

(mm/dd/yyyy).

5. Samples collected from each animal should be assigned a unique barcode. Place one

barcode on the datasheet, one on each jar of formalin, one on each Ziploc® (with two

Whirl-Paks® inside), and one on the Cryovial® of serum (if applicable).

6. Check the box next to the species from which the sample is being collected. If the 

species is a cervid or canid, specify which animal is being tested in the space next to the 

box. Specify the species being tested if the animal is not listed on the datasheet.

7. Check the box corresponding to the age, class, and sex for each animal. 

8. Specify whether the samples are being submitted for histopathology (in formalin) and/or 

culture (in Whirl-Paks® or sodium borate) by checking the box next to the region of the 

body. 

9. Check the corresponding box if no gross lesions are observed.

10. If any tissues with lesions are collected, specify which tissue is being submitted and 

describe the lesions in the appropriate box. Send digital photographs by e-mail to the 

appropriate contact person (see Communication When Shipping Samples to NVSL). 

Label any digital photographs with the sample barcode of the animal.

11. At the bottom of the datasheet, indicate the date the samples are shipped to NVSL and the 

total number of sample containers that are included in the shipment (regardless of 

species).

12. The submitter is defined as the person responsible for shipping the samples to NVSL for 

testing. If the shipper and the collector are the same, check the box. If not, mark the 

name of the shipper and provide the appropriate telephone number. 

Shipping Samples to NVSL

Send all of the formalin-fixed and fresh tissues (or sodium borate) for each animal in a single 

shipping container. NVSL will assign an accession number to each shipment and will keep the

samples together to ensure that the results are reported under the same accession number. 

1. Seal a copy of the completed Wildlife Bovine Tuberculosis Surveillance Datasheet (see 

Appendix J) and a copy of the VS 10-4 form (see Appendix K) in a plastic bag and place 

them between the StyrofoamTM cooler and the cardboard box. Do not place datasheets 

inside the StyrofoamTM cooler.

2. Seal the box with packing tape.
20

3. Samples must be shipped Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday of each week to 

ensure arrival at the laboratory on a weekday. 

4. Contact the laboratory prior to shipment and provide the number of samples submitted 

for histopathology and culture and the FedEx tracking number (see Appendix A for 

specific laboratory contact information).

5. All samples should be shipped FedEx priority overnight using the prepaid FedEx label 

provided by NVSL to:

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

National Veterinary Services Laboratories

TB Wildlife Surveillance Samples

1920 Dayton Road

Ames, Iowa 50010

Communication When Shipping Samples to NVSL

Contact the laboratory prior to shipping (see Appendix A). Notify the Mycobacteriology 

Laboratory when sending samples for culture by telephone at (515) 337-7388 or by e-mail at 

Suelee.Robbe-Austerman@aphis.usda.gov or Doris.M.Bravo@aphis.usda.gov. Histopathology 

Laboratory staff may be contacted by telephone at (515) 337-7521 or by e-mail at 

Bruce.V.Thomsen@aphis.usda.gov or Mark.Hall@aphis.usda.gov. For serum samples, notify 

Jeff Nelson by telephone at (515) 337-7966 or by e-mail at Jeffrey.T.Nelson@aphis.usda.gov. 

Reporting Results

Results will be reported directly to the submitter by e-mail. The submitter is responsible for 

either sending an updated spreadsheet to Wildlife Services’ National Wildlife Disease Program 

in Fort Collins, Colorado (contact Kerri.Pedersen@aphis.usda.gov for an updated version of the 

spreadsheet) or forwarding the datasheets and results reports for inclusion in the national 

database to wslabresults@aphis.usda.gov.

III. Testing of Samples

A. Histopathology

Histopathology is a rapid method of identifying disease processes occurring in the tissue and 

typically takes 1 to 3 days to complete. If the microscopic lesion consists of granulomas that 
21

contain acid-fast bacteria, the case is diagnosed as mycobacteriosis compatible. This diagnosis 

means the lesion is consistent with tuberculosis; however, the species of acid-fast bacteria

causing this lesion cannot be determined using histopathology alone. A diagnosis of 

mycobacteriosis compatible is not a diagnosis of infection with M. bovis. 

The process of testing the samples involves technicians examining and cutting each tissue to a 2 

mm thick (quarter-sized) subsample. Formalin changes the color and texture of tissues; 

therefore, it is critical that the collector record any lesions on the “Wildlife Bovine Tuberculosis 

Surveillance Datasheet.” Detailed descriptions of lesions will assist the laboratory technician in 

identifying and sampling any small lesions that may be obscured by the formalin fixation. 

Subsamples are collected and further processed, stained, and mounted onto slides that are 

examined by pathologists the following day. 

B. Polymerase Chain Reaction 

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing is conducted only if histopathology indicates the 

presence of acid-fast bacteria and typically takes 3 to 8 days for results after histopathology 

testing has been completed. This test is conducted on formalin fixed tissues. Tissues that remain 

in formalin for more than 7 to 10 days before being processed may result in false negative test 

results due to denaturing of the DNA; therefore, timely submission of samples to the laboratory 

is important. 

PCR is used to determine the presence of genetic material from the Mycobacterium tuberculosis

complex (which includes M. bovis, M. tuberculosis, and several other species), M. avium and M. 

a. paratuberculosis. However, PCR does not detect all of the other species of mycobacteria. 

Additionally, a negative finding by PCR does not necessarily mean absence of M. bovis and a 

positive result does not necessarily mean the animal was infectious or shedding.

C. Mycobacteriologic Culture

Fresh tissues submitted for culture of mycobacteria are first screened for visible lesions in the 

laboratory. Tissues with lesions are processed separately from nonlesioned tissues. If no lesions 

are observed, submitted tissues from each animal are pooled using a representative section of 

each tissue submitted. 

Tissues are decontaminated with a sodium hydroxide solution to remove fungal and bacterial 

contaminants, followed by inoculation of various solid and liquid culture media to recover any 

mycobacterial species that may be present. M. bovis is a slow-growing microorganism that

usually takes 4 to 8 weeks to grow. Culture media is monitored weekly for a total of 8 weeks to 

detect potential positive cases. An acid-fast stain is performed if suspicious growth is noted on 

any media during the 8 week incubation period. If acid-fast bacteria are observed, a GenProbe 

test for M. tuberculosis complex is ordered with results available within 3 to 5 days. This 

GenProbe test is a commercially available test kit that identifies the unknown bacteria as either 

positive or negative for the M. tuberculosis complex. Since M. tuberculosis complex contains 

multiple species (M. tuberculosis, M. bovis, and several others), further testing is needed on all 
22

GenProbe positive cases to identify the acid-fast bacteria as M. bovis. This confirmatory testing,

called spoligotyping, usually takes an additional 3 to 7 days to complete. 

If acid-fast bacteria other than M. tuberculosis complex are recovered, the result “acid-fast 

bacteria recovered, not M. tuberculosis complex” is reported. Definitive identification of these 

acid-fast bacteria is usually not performed unless prior arrangements have been made with the 

laboratory. In these cases, an additional 4 to 8 weeks may be required to identify atypical 

mycobacteria to the species level. 

IV. Data Management

A. Overview

All data should be reported to WS’ National Wildlife Disease Program by e-mail to 

nwdpdata@aphis.usda.gov. This type of centralized data storage will facilitate identification of 

patterns and can be used to generate reports, graphs, and maps. The centralized data storage will 

also serve as a resource for providing information to the public and to inform policy makers 

about activities related to TB surveillance in wildlife.

B. Data Entry and Responsibilities

The collector is responsible for completing all of the information on the datasheet (see Appendix 

J). Collectors should enter their data into the “Tuberculosis in Wildlife Data Collection” 

spreadsheet and then e-mail it to nwdpdata@aphis.usda.gov when samples have been submitted 

to NVSL for testing.

C. Data Mapping and Reporting

Results reports should be forwarded to nwdpdata@aphis.usda.gov for inclusion in the national

database. Maps will be available to collectors upon request. 

Acknowledgements

Guidelines for Surveillance of Bovine Tuberculosis in Wildlife was developed in collaboration 

between APHIS’ WS and VS. We would like to extend our appreciation to the Michigan 

Department of Natural Resources and Environment, the Minnesota Department of Natural 

Resources, and USDA’s Agricultural Research Service for reviewing the manual and providing 

consultation and photographs of lesions. 
Appendix A: National Wildlife TB Surveillance Contacts

Version 1.0 – June 2011 National Wildlife TB Surveillance Contacts: Page A1

National Wildlife TB Surveillance Contacts

Organization Office Contact Name Phone E-mail

USDA, APHIS, WS,

National Wildlife 

Disease Program

Tom DeLiberto (970) 266-6088 Thomas.J.DeLiberto@aphis.usda.gov

Tom Gidlewski (970) 266-6350 Thomas.Gidlewski@aphis.usda.gov

Kerri Pedersen (970) 266-6272 Kerri.Pedersen@aphis.usda.gov

USDA, APHIS, VS Bill Hench (970) 494-7378 Charles.W.Hench@aphis.usda.gov

Kathy Orloski (970) 494-7221 Kathy.A.Orloski@aphis.usda.gov

Alecia Naugle (301) 734-7569 Alecia.L.Naugle@aphis.usda.gov

USDA, APHIS, VS

Mycobacteriologic 

Culture

Suelee Robbe-Austerman (515) 337-7388 Suelee.Robbe-Austerman@aphis.usda.gov

USDA, APHIS, VS,

Histopathology & PCR

Bruce Thomsen (515) 337-7521 Bruce.V.Thomsen@aphis.usda.gov

Mark Hall (515) 337-7521 Mark.Hall@aphis.usda.gov

USDA, APHIS, VS,

Serum Bank

Jeff Nelson (515) 337-7966 Jeffrey.T.Nelson@aphis.usda.gov

USDA, APHIS, VS,

Sampling Supplies

Jason Bunn (515) 337-7530 Jason.K.Bunn@aphis.usda.gov

Lorie Walsh (515) 337-7530 Lorie.K.Walsh@aphis.usda.gov
Appendix B: MSDS for 10% Buffered Formalin

Version 1.0 – June 2011 MSDS for 10% Buffered Formalin: Page B1

 M S D S Material Safety Data Sheet 

337 Gordon Drive ● Exton, PA 19341 ● (610) 524-5810

FORMALIN SOLUTION 10% Neutral Buffered

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

Date Issue: 

The following information is believed to be correct but is not warranteed as such, nor does it purport to be all inclusive. 

Product Identification 

Product Name: 10% Neutral Buffered Formalin

Product Code: PFNBF-180, PFNBF-240, PFNBF-360, PFNBF-1000

Product Description: A buffered aqueous solution of formaldehyde and methanol

Health 2

Flammability 0

Reactivity 0

Physical Hazard None

Section 1 - Shipping Data

DOT Shipping Name:* Ground shipments Not regulated Tel. # for information: (610) 524-5810

DOT Hazard Class: Not applicable Emergency Tel. #: (800) 424-9300

DOT Identification: Not applicable Prepared by: P.B.

Section 2 - Hazardous Ingredients / Identity Information

CHEMICAL COMPONENTS CAS# % OSHA PEL ACGIH TLV

Formaldehyde 50-00-0 3-4% 0.75 ppm 1 ppm STEL

Methyl Alcohol 67-56-1 ~1% 200 ppm TWA 200 ppm STEL

Section 3 - Physical / Chemical Characteristics

Boiling Point: ~100° C Specific Gravity (H20 = 1): 1.01

Vapor Pressure (mm Hg and Temperature): 18@20°C Evaporation Rate ( n-butyl alcohol= 1): 1

Vapor Density (AIR=1): 1 Solubility in Water: Complete

Appearance and Odor: Clear, colorless solution. Characteristic odor of formaldehyde.

Section 4 - Fire and Explosion Hazard Data

24 HOUR EMERGENCY

TELEPHONE NUMBER

 CALL CHEMTREC

 1-800-424-9300
Appendix B: MSDS for 10% Buffered Formalin

Version 1.0 – June 2011 MSDS for 10% Buffered Formalin: Page B2

Flash Point (Method Used): Not applicable Flammability Limits: Not applicable

Extinguishing Media: Dry Chemical, carbon dioxide or alcohol type foam.

Special Fire Fighting Procedures: Use self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing.

Unusual Fire and Explosive Hazards: Pyrolysis will release toxic compounds such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.

Section 5 - Reactivity Data

Stability: Polymerizes slowly to from paraformaldehyde. Conditions to Avoid: Heat.

Incompatibility (Materials to Avoid): Strong oxidizers, strong alkalis, acids, phenol and urea.

Precautions to be taken in Handling and Storage: Store at room temperature. Do not freeze.

Section 6 - Health Hazard Data

Routes of Entry Inhalation? Skin Absorption? Ingestion?

yes yes yes

Carcinogenicity? NTP? IARC Monographs? OSHA Regulated?

yes no yes yes

Health Hazards (Acute and Chronic): . Inhalation can lead to congestion, coughing and shortness of breath. Frequent skin contact leads 

to drying and scaling. Ingestion will damage the throat, stomach and intestines resulting in nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. 

Lowered blood pressure, spontaneous abortion, loss of consciousness and kidney damage may result. Inhalation of high concentratrions of 

vapor (14 ppm) have caused cancer in laboratory animals. Genetic damage in bacteria has been demonstrated.

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure: People who regularly work with formaldehyde are required to have regular 

medical surveillance.

Emergency and First Aid Procedures: Seek medical assistance for further treatment, observation and support if necessary.

Eye Contact: Irrigate immediately with large quantity of water for at least 15 minutes. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing and flush with water.

Ingestion: Dilute immediately with water or milk. Induce vomiting followed by a slurry of activated charcoal.. Do not induce vomiting if 

patient is unconscious or drowsy, contact physician.

Inhalation: Remove to fresh air. Give artificial respiration if necessary. Contact physician.

All other means of exposure: Contact poison control center immediately. Be prepared to provide hazardous ingredient information.

Section 7 - Precautions For Safe Handling and Use

Steps to be Taken In Case of Spill Or Release: Absorb with a suitable absorbent (such as paper towel) and dispose.

Waste Disposal Methods: The disposal of formaldehyde is usually restricted. Incineration is the preferred method of disposal. Waste water 

disposal permits sometimes allow small quantities to be flushed down drain with excess water. Ensure compliance with all government 

regulations.

Section 8- Control Measures

Respiratory Protection (Specify Type): Recommended.

Ventilation: Use local mechanical exhaust such as a chemical fume hood.

Protective Gloves: Use rubber or plastic gloves that are impervious to formaldehyde.

Eye Protection: Laboratory safety goggles or similar products are recommended as part of good laboratory practice.

Other Protective Clothing And Equipment: Use chemical resistant clothing.

Hygienic Work Practices: Wash well after handling, especially before eating and smoking.

EVER SCIENTIFIC INC. MAKES NO REPRESENTATION AS TO THE COMPREHENSIVENESS OR ACCURACY OF THIS INFORMATION. 

INDIVIDUALS RECEIVING THIS INFORMATION MUST EXERCISE THEIR INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT IN DETERMINING ITS 

APPROPRIATENESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. ACCORDINGLY, EVER SCIENTIFIC INC. WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR 

DAMAGES OF ANY KIND OR NATURE RESULTING FROM THE USE OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION. NO REPRESENTATIONS OR 

WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND OR NATURE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, EXPRESS WARRANTIES, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF 

MERCHANTABILITY, OR WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE MADE HEREUNDER WITH RESPECT TO THE 

INFORMATION SET FORTH HEREIN OR TO THE PRODUCT TO WHICH THE INFORMATION REFERS.
Appendix C: MSDS for Sodium Borate

Version 1.0 –June 2011 MSDS for Sodium Borate: Page C1
Appendix C: MSDS for Sodium Borate

Version 1.0 –June 2011 MSDS for Sodium Borate: Page C2
Appendix C: MSDS for Sodium Borate

Version 1.0 –June 2011 MSDS for Sodium Borate: Page C3
Appendix C: MSDS for Sodium Borate

Version 1.0 –June 2011 MSDS for Sodium Borate: Page C4
Appendix C: MSDS for Sodium Borate

Version 1.0 –June 2011 MSDS for Sodium Borate: Page C5
Appendix C: MSDS for Sodium Borate

Version 1.0 –June 2011 MSDS for Sodium Borate: Page C6
Appendix D: Raccoon Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Raccoon Necropsy: Page D1

RACCOON (Procyon lotor)

To begin necropsy:

1. Position the animal on its back. 

2. Cut the skin along the ventral midline from the chin to the tail. 

3. Move the limbs out of the way by cutting through the muscles as well as the hip and shoulder 

joints and reflecting the limbs over to the side.

Removal of the head lymph nodes and tissues:

Extend the raccoon’s neck and feel for the curvature of the mandible. The submandibular lymph 

nodes are just below the surface of the skin at the base of the mandible. The submandibular 

lymph nodes are associated with the salivary glands and can be easily confused. Be careful to 

collect lymph node and not cut too deep when cutting through the skin.
Appendix D: Raccoon Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Raccoon Necropsy: Page D2

After removing the submandibular lymph nodes, cut from the curvature of the mandible along 

the side of the trachea, carefully separating the muscles to avoid damaging the retropharyngeal 

lymph node. Remove both medial retropharyngeal lymph nodes. 

It is not necessary to collect the parotid lymph nodes from raccoons because they are small and 

difficult to find in animals smaller than cervids. 

Removal of the tonsils:

To remove the tonsils, free the tongue by cutting between the sides and tip of the tongue and the 

mandible. Retract the tongue towards the tail. The tonsils can be seen on the soft palate of the 

mouth on either side. Carefully extract both tonsils.
Appendix D: Raccoon Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Raccoon Necropsy: Page D3

Removal of the thoracic lymph nodes and tissues:

Expose the chest cavity by cutting the ribs along the vertebrae and rotate the rib cage up and 

above the carcass. Alternatively, the rib cage can be cut along the sternum and along the back 

and removed. Visually examine and palpate the lungs for firmness, lumps, or lesions. Also, look 

for lesions or abnormalities on the wall of the chest or elsewhere in the chest cavity. If in doubt, 

submit the tissue to the laboratory for a conclusive interpretation.

Identify where the trachea branches into the right and left bronchii. The tracheobronchial lymph 

nodes are located where the main stem bronchii branch off of the trachea. The aortic arch 

surrounds the left tracheobronchial lymph node.

The mediastinal lymph node is located on the front side of the junction of the bronchii and the 

heart. When holding the heart, flip it over and push your finger between the two divisions—the 

mediastinal lymph node should then pop out.
Appendix D: Raccoon Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Raccoon Necropsy: Page D4

Removal of abdominal cavity lymph nodes:

The mesenteric lymph nodes are the only lymph nodes from the abdominal cavity to routinely 

submit to the laboratory. Expose the abdominal contents by removing the flap of muscle that 

covers the abdominal cavity from the rib cage to the pelvis. The mesenteric lymph nodes are 

located within the thin, opaque mesentery that suspends the bowel. The mesenteric lymph nodes

most readily apparent are in the mesentery between the loops of small intestine where the blood 

vessels converge. There are also several smaller mesenteric lymph nodes between the large 

intestine and kidneys. 
Appendix E: Deer and Other Cervid Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Deer Necropsy: Page E1

DEER (Family Cervidae)

To begin necropsying:

1. Place the deer on its side. 

2. Cut the skin along the ventral midline from the chin to the tail. 

3. Move the limbs out of the way by cutting through the muscles as well as the hip and shoulder 

joints and reflecting the limbs over to the side.

Removal of the head lymph nodes and tissues:

Feel for the curvature of the mandible and the larynx and cut between the two. 

The submandibular lymph nodes are associated with the mandibular salivary glands located just 

under the skin near the curvature of the mandible. 
Appendix E: Deer and Other Cervid Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Deer Necropsy: Page E2

After removing the submandibular lymph nodes, cut through the trachea in front of the larynx 

and look for the lymph node in front of the salivary glands. Remove both medial retropharyngeal 

lymph nodes. 

Salivary tissue surrounds both the retropharyngeal and submandibular lymph nodes and can be 

easily confused with lymph nodes. Be careful to identify and collect only the lymph nodes and 

not the salivary gland. Lymph nodes are solid white-gray in color and are not lobulated; adjacent 

salivary glands are lobulated. 
Appendix E: Deer and Other Cervid Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Deer Necropsy: Page E3

The parotid lymph nodes are located within the parotid salivary gland between the ear and the 

eye, just in front of and below the external ear canal. Locate and extract both parotid lymph 

nodes on either side of the head. Feel for the slight indentation of the temple to begin the cut.

Removal of the tonsils:

To remove the tonsils, open the mandible and pull back the tongue. The tonsils can be seen on 

the roof the mouth on either side. Carefully extract both tonsils.
Appendix E: Deer and Other Cervid Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Deer Necropsy: Page E4

Removal of the thoracic lymph nodes and tissues:

Expose the chest cavity by cutting the ribs along the sternum and backbone. Visually examine 

and palpate the lungs for firmness, lumps, or lesions. Also, look for lesions on the wall of the 

chest or elsewhere in the chest cavity for abnormalities. If in doubt, submit the tissue and let the 

laboratory decide.

Identify where the trachea branches into the right and left bronchii. The tracheobronchial lymph 

nodes are located on the left and right sides where the bronchii branch. The aortic arch surrounds 

the left tracheobronchial lymph node.

The mediastinal lymph node is located on the ventral side of the junction of the bronchii and the 

heart. When holding the heart, flip it over and push your finger between the two divisions—the 

mediastinal lymph node should then pop out.
Appendix E: Deer and Other Cervid Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Deer Necropsy: Page E5

Removal of the abdominal cavity lymph nodes:

Expose the abdominal contents by removing the flap of muscle that covers the abdominal cavity. 

The mesenteric lymph nodes are the only lymph nodes from the abdominal cavity to routinely 

submit to the laboratory. The mesenteric lymph nodes are located between the small intestine 

and the cecum in the mesentery between the loops of the small intestine. The mesenteric lymph 

nodes are usually elongated in an arc or crescent, and generally appear as a series of lymph 

nodes. Use the cecum as a landmark for the termination of the small intestine and work 

backwards.
Appendix F: Coyote Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Coyote Necropsy: Page F1

Coyote (Canis latrans)

To begin necropsy:

1. Place the animal on its back and cut the skin along the ventral midline from the chin to the 

tail. 

2. Move the limbs out of the way by cutting through the muscles as well as the hip and shoulder 

joints and reflecting the limbs over to the side.

Removal of the head lymph nodes and tissues:

Extend the coyote’s neck and feel for the curvature of the mandible. The submandibular lymph 

nodes are just below the surface of the skin at the base of the mandible. Be careful not to cut too 

deep when skinning the jaw to avoid cutting the submandibular lymph nodes. 

After removing the submandibular lymph nodes, cut from the curvature of the mandible along 

the side of the trachea, carefully separating the muscles to expose the medial retropharyngeal 

lymph nodes without damaging them. 
Appendix F: Coyote Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Coyote Necropsy: Page F2

It is not necessary to collect the parotid lymph nodes from coyotes because they are small and 

difficult to find in animals smaller than cervids. 

Removal of the tonsils:

To remove the tonsils, open the mandible and pull back the tongue. The tonsils can be seen on 

the roof the mouth on either side of the soft palate. Carefully extract both tonsils.

Removal of the thoracic lymph nodes and tissues:

Expose the chest cavity by cutting the ribs along the vertebrae. Visually examine and palpate the 

lungs for firmness, lumps, or lesions. Also, look for lesions on the wall of the chest or elsewhere 

in the chest cavity for abnormalities. If in doubt, submit the tissue and let the lab make the 

decision. 

Identify where the trachea branches into the right and left bronchii. The tracheobronchial lymph 

nodes are located where the bronchii branch. The aortic arch surrounds the left tracheobronchial 

lymph node.
Appendix F: Coyote Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Coyote Necropsy: Page F3

The mediastinal lymph node is located on the ventral side of the junction of the bronchii with the 

heart. When holding the heart, flip it over and push your finger between the two divisions—the 

mediastinal lymph node should pop out.
Appendix F: Coyote Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Coyote Necropsy: Page F4

Removal of the abdominal cavity lymph nodes:

Expose the abdominal contents by removing the flap of muscle that covers the abdominal cavity. 

The mesenteric lymph nodes are the only lymph nodes to routinely submit from the abdominal 

cavity. There are multiple mesenteric lymph nodes in the middle of the mesentery of the small 

intestine. They are most readily apparent in the mesentery between the loops of small intestine 

where the blood vessels converge. There are several smaller mesenteric lymph nodes in the 

mesentery between the large intestine and the kidneys. 
Appendix G: Opossum Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Opossum Necropsy: Page G1

Opossum (Didelphis virginiana)

To begin necropsy:

1. Place the animal on its back and cut the skin along the ventral midline from chin to tail. 

2. Move the limbs out of the way by cutting through the muscles, as well as the hip and shoulder 

joints, and reflecting the limbs over to the side.

Removal of the head lymph nodes and tissues:

Extend the opossum’s neck and feel for the curvature of the mandible. The submandibular lymph 

nodes are just below the surface of the skin at the base of the mandible. Be careful not to cut too 

deep when cutting through the skin. 
Appendix G: Opossum Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Opossum Necropsy: Page G2

After removing the submandibular lymph nodes, cut from the curvature of the mandible along 

the side of the trachea; carefully separating the muscles to avoid damaging the medial 

retropharyngeal lymph nodes. Remove both medial retropharyngeal lymph nodes. 

It is not necessary to collect the parotid lymph nodes from opossums because they are small and 

difficult to find in animals smaller than cervids. 

Removal of the tonsils:

To remove the tonsils, loosen the tongue by cutting along the sides and pull the tongue back. 

The tonsils can be seen where the tongue connects to the soft palate. Carefully extract both 

tonsils.
Appendix G: Opossum Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Opossum Necropsy: Page G3

Removal of the thoracic lymph nodes and tissues:

Expose the chest cavity by cutting the ribs along the sternum. Visually examine and palpate the 

lungs for firmness, lumps, or lesions. Collect samples for culture and histopathology, and look 

for lesions on the wall of the chest or elsewhere in the chest cavity for abnormalities. If in doubt, 

submit the tissue and let the laboratory decide. 

Identify the area where the trachea branches into the right and left bronchii. The tracheobronchial 

lymph nodes are located where the bronchii branch. The aortic arch surrounds the left 

tracheobronchial lymph node.

The mediastinal lymph node is located on the ventral side of the junction of the bronchii and the 

heart. When holding the heart, flip it over and push your finger between the two divisions—the 

mediastinal lymph node should then pop out.
Appendix G: Opossum Necropsy

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Opossum Necropsy: Page G4

Removal of the abdominal cavity lymph nodes:

Expose the abdominal contents by removing the flap of muscle that covers the abdominal cavity 

from the rib cage to the pelvis. The mesenteric lymph nodes are the only lymph nodes from the 

abdominal cavity to submit to the laboratory. They are located within the thin, opaque mesentery 

that suspends the bowel, and are most readily apparent in the mesentery between the loops of 

small intestine where the blood vessels converge. There are also several mesenteric lymph nodes 

between the large intestine and kidneys. 
Appendix H: Feral Swine Necropsy

Version 1.0 –June 2011 Feral Swine Necropsy: Page H1

Feral Swine (Sus scrofa)

To begin necropsy:

1. Place the animal on its side and cut the skin along the ventral midline from chin to tail. 

2. Move the limbs out of the way by cutting through the muscles as well as the hip and shoulder 

joints and reflecting the limbs over to the side.

Removal of the head lymph nodes and tissues:

Feral swine have more fat than other wildlife species; therefore, the lymph nodes may be deeper 

than in other species. Feel for the curvature of the mandible and find the base of the ear canal. 

The parotid lymph node is located on the caudal side of the line between the curvature of the 

mandible and the base of the ear canal. 

The submandibular lymph nodes are located on the interior side of the curvature of the mandible.

They are multilobular and appear very different than other species. Lymph nodes in feral swine 

are often multilobulated and multiple lymph nodes appear rather than singly.
Appendix H: Feral Swine Necropsy

Version 1.0 –June 2011 Feral Swine Necropsy: Page H2

 

After removing the submandibular lymph nodes, cut towards the foramen magnum where the 

neck hinges. The medial retropharyngeal lymph nodes are more caudal than in other species and 

are directly behind the paramastoid process (bony structures in the skull). Remove both medial

retropharyngeal lymph nodes. 
Appendix H: Feral Swine Necropsy

Version 1.0 –June 2011 Feral Swine Necropsy: Page H3

Removal of the tonsils:

To remove the tonsils, cut along both sides of the mandible to free the tongue. Pull the tongue 

back towards the tail. The tonsils make up almost the entire soft palate directly behind the hard 

palate and are flat, large, and finely pitted. Carefully extract both tonsils.

Removal of the thoracic lymph nodes and tissues:

Expose the chest cavity by cutting the ribs along the sternum. Visually examine and palpate the 

lungs for firmness, lumps, or lesions. Collect samples for culture and histopathology if any 

abnormal tissue is observed, and look for lesions on the wall of the chest or elsewhere in the 

chest cavity for abnormalities. If in doubt, submit the tissue to the laboratory to decide. 

Identify where the trachea branches into the right and left bronchii. The tracheobronchial lymph 

nodes are located where the bronchii branch. The aortic arch surrounds the left tracheobronchial 

lymph node and is usually the more obvious of the two. An alternate method to finding the

tracheobronchial lymph nodes is to cut down the trachea to where the bronchii branch. 
Appendix H: Feral Swine Necropsy

Version 1.0 –June 2011 Feral Swine Necropsy: Page H4
Appendix H: Feral Swine Necropsy

Version 1.0 –June 2011 Feral Swine Necropsy: Page H5

The mediastinal lymph nodes are easiest to find with the animal lying on its left side. Lift up the 

lungs and the mediastinal lymph nodes can be identified as a series of small nodes between the 

esophagus and the vagus nerve underneath the lungs. 

Removal of the abdominal cavity lymph nodes:

Expose the abdominal contents by removing the flap of muscle that covers the abdominal cavity 

from the rib cage to the pelvis. The mesenteric lymph nodes are the only lymph nodes from the 

abdominal cavity to routinely submit to the laboratory. They are located within the thin, opaque 

mesentery that suspends the bowel. However, if the pig has a lot of fat they will be difficult to 

see. 
Appendix I: TB Lesions by Species

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Lesions: Page I1

Cervid Lesions
Appendix I: TB Lesions by Species

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Lesions: Page I2

Coyote Lesions

Feral Swine Lesions
Appendix I: TB Lesions by Species

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Lesions: Page I3

Opossum Lesions
Appendix J: Sample Wildlife Bovine Tuberculosis Surveillance Field Datasheet

Version 1.0 – June 2011 TB Datasheet: Page J1
Appendix K: Sample 10-4 Form

Version 1.0 – June 2011 Sample 10-4 Form: Page K1